User Reviews

Norman Foster isn't a guy you'd normally expect to see a documentary about because he did not generally direct "big name" films. Instead, his forte were B-movies, as he could write and direct these films at or under budget--no small feat considering how cheap the B's were supposed to be. However, despite these shortcomings, his B-films managed to look much nicer than the average B series film and were far more successful. His Charlie Chan and Mr. Moto films were among the best of the genre and it's not surprising that this film was included as a DVD extra for THE MYSTERIOUS MR. MOTO.

What is surprising, though are two things. First, that Foster had a very successful career with the advent of television--making most of the the very popular Disney shows of the 50s (such as "Davy Crockett"). Second, that everyone had such nice things to say about him--family, friends and business associates all agreeing he was a heck of a fella.

Overall, a better than average DVD extra and a fascinating look at a lesser-known director who actually did a lot in his long career.

Norman Foster may not be a household name, but this brief documentary paints him as a "giant" and an "underdog". His acting and directing are covered, and we learn of his real name and birth place...

Foster's films, particularly with Charlie Chan and Mr. Moto, were made as B-movies, but are today remembered better than many of the A-movies. Foster, even without a budget, was able to write excellent scripts and was committed to authenticity. He did what he could (such as using stock footage) to try to make them respectful to the Orient.

After doing serials in the 1930s, it seems natural he would get handed such franchises as "Batman" and "Green Hornet" years later. And still, not a well known name, even amongst Batman fans.